Best of Denver

🦄 Most Unique Restaurants in Denver

Denver’s most unique restaurants turn dinner into adventure with global flavors, inventive formats, and dishes you’ll talk about long after.
Angela Hart
Last Updated:
August 27, 2025
Written by Angela Hart and Denver Curated Staff. Ranked by 10,000+ Denver Curated Subscribers.

Denver’s dining scene is full of surprises. The kind of restaurants that feel like experiences as much as meals. You’ll find communal dim-sum-style tapas, wild game tasting flights, and even sake brewed right in RiNo. Creativity shows up everywhere, from vegan brunches that impress omnivores to rooftop cafés filled with plants and cozy Ukrainian kitchens serving house schnitzel.

These unique spots go beyond bold flavors with interactive hospitality, stunning spaces, and thoughtful details that keep locals coming back. Want more inspiration? Pair this guide with our picks for most unique bars, dive into the city’s romantic date-night restaurants, or browse the full restaurant directory to plan your next one-of-a-kind meal.

🍽️✨ Quick Picks

🥢 Most Interactive Dining: SuperMegaBien — Latin dim sum cart service in a vibrant hotel setting.

🍶 Best for Adventurous Drinks: Colorado Sake Co. — Sake flights, fresh sushi, and live music in RiNo.

🌱 Best Whimsical Brunch: City O' City — Inventive plant-based comfort food in an artsy, laid-back space.

City O' City

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🥗 Vegan & Vegetarian

🌳 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. Brunch reservations are highly recommended, especially for their lauded breakfast burrito, with evenings seeing a busy happy hour scene and creative cocktails.

📍 Local Insights

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

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

🍹 Happy Hour Specials: Visit between 3–6 PM daily for discounted drinks and small plates, perfect for casual gatherings.

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

🍽️ What to Try

Breakfast Burrito, BBQ Bowl, Seitan Wings, Fried Ravioli, Buffalo Chicken Pizza, Brussels Sprouts, Carrot Bacon, Kimchi Pancakes, Vegan Nice Cream, Savory Waffle, Chicken and Waffles, Poutine, BBQ Mac
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Colorado Sake Co.

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🍣 Japanese

🎨 RiNo

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Colorado Sake Co. redefines Japanese dining with American-brewed sake flights and a menu featuring fresh sushi rolls, bao buns, and dim sum. Located in RiNo, this casual yet trend-forward spot offers live music nights and a robust sake selection, perfect for exploring the unexpected side of unique restaurants in Denver. It attracts group gatherings, sake lovers, and those seeking a vibrant evening out—especially busy for dinner and on music nights.

📍 Local Insights

🍶 Sake Flights Are a Must: Try the sake flight to sample a curated selection of their best brews, including unique infusions and traditional styles.

🎶 Live Music Enhances the Vibe: Check out evenings with live music for a lively, social atmosphere that complements the sake experience.

🥢 Share Small Plates: Order a variety of dim sum and bao buns to share for an authentic and interactive dining style.

🌤️ Outdoor Seating in Good Weather: When the weather is nice, snag an outdoor table for a relaxed dining experience in RiNo’s energetic street scene.

🍽️ What to Try

Sake flights, Nigori sake, Junmai Ginjo sake, Junmai Daiginjo on tap, Sushi rolls, Dim sum, Bao buns, Tofu roll, Mushroom bao buns, Spicy tuna & avocado roll, Sashimi, Veggie fried rice
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Rhein Haus

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🥨 German

🥂 LoDo

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Rhein Haus brings a piece of Bavaria to downtown Denver, with an expansive German beer hall, bocce ball courts, and standout housemade pretzels. The menu highlights German sausages and playful treats like deep-fried Oreos, ideal for those seeking the most unique restaurants in Denver. Competitive groups and families love the lively afternoons and evenings, and visiting during happy hour offers both savings and energetic crowds.

🍻 Local Insights

🎯 Bocce Ball Fun: Guests love booking bocce courts early to secure playtime, enhancing the social experience beyond just dining.

🍺 Try the German Mule: The cocktail made with Apple Schnapps is a popular local favorite, perfect for those wanting a unique spin on classic drinks.

🥨 Pretzels Are a Must: Always order the housemade pretzels, a signature item that pairs excellently with their beer selection.

🕒 Happy Hour Savvy: Visit Monday through Friday from 3–6 PM for discounted drinks and food, but confirm pricing to avoid surprises.

🍽️ What to Try

German Sausages, Housemade Pretzels, Schweinehaxe (Pork Knuckle), Jägerschnitzel, Apple Strudel, Deep-Fried Oreos, Deep-Fried PB&J, Wings, Goulash, Smorgasbord (assorted German meats and sides), Cheese Curds, Sliders
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The Wolf's Tailor

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🥂 Fine Dining

🌲 Highlands

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The Wolf's Tailor specializes in wild game and seasonal tasting menus, crafted in an industrial-chic space with a cozy fireplace and garden patio. Signature touches include creative non-alcoholic pairings and house-baked bread from their own wheat, defining its place among the most unique restaurants in Denver. Reservations are required, and the refined setting draws couples and culinary enthusiasts—especially for special occasions.

📍 Local Insights

🍷 Cocktail and Non-Alcoholic Pairings: Guests recommend trying the full drink pairing for an elevated experience, noting creative and well-thought-out beverage options.

🔥 Cozy Fireplace Setting: The warm ambiance with a fireplace enhances the intimate dining experience, perfect for romantic dinners or special occasions.

🥩 Must-Try A5 Wagyu Upgrade: The A5 Wagyu is a standout dish that guests say is worth the splurge and delivers an unforgettable taste.

🌿 Emphasis on Sustainability: The restaurant sources local ingredients and grows its own wheat for bread, appealing to eco-conscious diners.

🍽️ What to Try

Wild Game Dishes, Seasonal Tasting Menus, A5 Wagyu Beef, Small Plates, Vegetarian Options, Unique Non-Alcoholic Pairings, Cocktail Pairings, Artisanal Bread (house-grown wheat), Fermented Items
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SuperMegaBien

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🌽 Latin American

🎨 RiNo

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SuperMegaBien delivers a dim-sum-style Latin American experience inside The Ramble Hotel, with tapas-style dishes like ropa vieja and tuna ceviche served from roaming carts. Creative cocktails and vegan options add to the appeal, cementing its status as one of the most unique restaurants in Denver. Evenings are lively and interactive, drawing energetic groups and those seeking a playful approach to dinner.

📍 Local Insights

🍽️ Dim Sum Style Dining: The tapas arrive on carts, so diners should be ready to select plates as they pass by rather than ordering à la carte.

🍹 Excellent Cocktails: The bar is highly recommended for creative drinks, making it a great spot for a night out even if you avoid meat dishes.

🚗 Parking Challenges: Free street parking is available but often scarce; rideshare is advised to avoid parking hassles.

🌱 Allergy-Friendly Options: There are many gluten-free and vegan choices, appealing to diverse dietary needs.

🍽️ What to Try

Tuna Ceviche, Ropa Vieja, Croquettes, Patatas Bravas, Pork Wings, Pork Belly Mole, Chicken Leg Main Dish, Plantains, Arepas, Pan de Queso, Spanish Rice
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Plant Magic Cafe

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🥐 Café & Bakery

🍽️ Uptown

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Plant Magic Cafe combines specialty lattes and organic vegan fare with a unique plant-medicine focus, making it an eclectic standout among unique restaurants in Denver. Guests can enjoy live music, rooftop seating, and a dog-friendly outdoor area while connecting with the community. Popular with early risers and the wellness crowd, mornings are especially busy—arrive before noon for the best experience.

📍 Local Insights

☀️ Morning Rush: Expect the busiest hours between 9 AM and 12 PM, perfect for early risers seeking specialty lattes.

🌿 Microdose Club: Frequent visitors can join a loyalty program rewarding psilocybin capsules with each visit.

🎶 Live Music Vibes: Plan your visit around live performances to enjoy the full community atmosphere.

🐕 Dog-Friendly Outdoors: Bring your dog along to enjoy the outdoor seating area where pets are welcome.

🍽️ What to Try

Magic Lattes, Chagaccino with Cacao, Matcha, Coffee, Organic Small Plates, Comfort Food, Vegan Options, Vegetarian Options, Coffee Cake
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BRUTØ

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🥂 Fine Dining

🥂 LoDo

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BRUTØ offers a multi-course tasting experience in Denver’s Central neighborhood, emphasizing sustainability and zero-waste practices. Highlights include creative dishes fired in a stone oven and the much-praised piada bread, alongside expert pairings of cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks. As one of the most unique restaurants in Denver, it attracts special-occasion diners and food lovers—reservations are a must for this intimate spot.

🍽️ Local Insights

🍞 Must-Try Piada Bread: Guests rave about the signature piada bread – a perfect complement to the tasting menu and a fan favorite worth ordering.

🍹 Creative Non-Alcoholic Pairings: The non-alcoholic beverage pairings are thoughtfully crafted and highly recommended, rivaling the cocktail selections.

🌿 Sustainability Commitment: BRUTO emphasizes zero waste and sustainable sourcing, using almost every part of the ingredients, which adds a unique dimension to the dining experience.

🎟️ Reservations Essential: Booking ahead is a must as BRUTO is intimate and reservation-only, ensuring a personalized and uninterrupted culinary journey.

🍽️ What to Try

Tasting Menu, Small Plates, Piada Bread, Caviar, Buffalo Steak, Blood Sausage, Vegetarian Options, Dessert
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Flagstaff House

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🍔 American

🏔️ Boulder

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Flagstaff House, perched atop Flagstaff Mountain in Boulder, is a destination for panoramic views and multi-course fine dining. With dishes like Miyazaki A5 Wagyu and impressive wine pairings, it belongs among Colorado’s most unique restaurants. The cozy, elegant setting makes it a favorite for romantic dinners, with sunset hours drawing guests who want the full scenic experience.

📍 Local Insights

🌄 Best Views at Dinner: Guests recommend dining during sunset to fully enjoy the breathtaking vistas of Boulder from the mountain-top location.

🍷 Wine Pairing Excellence: The sommelier is highly knowledgeable and personable, enhancing the multi-course experience with expertly matched wines.

🪑 Accessibility: The restaurant offers wheelchair accessible entrances, parking, seating, and restrooms, ensuring comfort for guests with mobility needs.

🚗 Valet Parking: Although ample parking is available, valet service is offered and can ease arrival during busy evenings or special events.

🍽️ What to Try

Miyazaki A5 Wagyu, Hudson Valley Duck, Over-wintered Spinach Raviolo, Beef Tartare, Caviar (subject to availability), Gluten-Free Options, Multi-course Seasonal Menus, Pastry Chef Desserts
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Ultreia

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🥙 Mediterranean

🥂 LoDo

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Ultreia brings Spanish tapas and Portuguese petiscos to Union Station, where croquetas, bacon-wrapped dates, and Basque cheesecake are served in a mural-lined, split-level space. Craft cocktails and lively outdoor seating draw groups and travelers seeking unique restaurants in Denver. Popular for brunch and pre-event dinners, it’s busiest on weekends and game days—reservations are advised for prime times.

📍 Local Insights

🍸 Bartender Dominic's Recommendations: Guests rave about personalized cocktail suggestions from Dominic, enhancing the drink experience.

🌤 Outdoor Seating Perk: Enjoy warm weather by sitting on the covered patio, perfect for a laid-back meal near Union Station.

🍽 Try the Feast: The chef’s feast offers a curated tasting of multiple starters, mains, and dessert for a complete experience.

🎉 Great for Groups & Events: Popular for casual dinners with friends or pre/post Rockies game gatherings due to its shareable plates and lively vibe.

🍽️ What to Try

Bacon Wrapped Dates, Croquetas, Pan con Tomate, Jamón, Spiced Ribs, Queso Al Horno, Shishito Peppers, Bistec, Basque Cheesecake, Trout, Salad with Artichokes, Churros
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Molotov Kitschen + Cocktails

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🍴 Contemporary

🌳 City Park

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Molotov Kitschen + Cocktails stands out with Ukrainian-inspired small plates and a creative cocktail list in an intimate, modern setting. Dishes rotate with the seasons, featuring specialties like borscht and rabbit kielbasa, making it a distinctive addition to unique restaurants in Denver. Favored for dinner dates and adventurous palates, the restaurant sees its peak in the evenings; early arrival helps with street parking.

📍 Local Insights

🍸 Bar Seating Experience: Sit at the bar to watch the owner and staff craft dishes, enhancing your dining experience.

🌿 Seasonal Menus: The menu rotates every few months, offering fresh and innovative dishes to try on each visit.

🦌 Try Game Meats: Dishes like elk and rabbit standout for adventurous palates seeking unique flavors.

🅿️ Parking Tips: Free street parking is available nearby but can be challenging; arriving early is advised for easier spots.

🍽️ What to Try

Borscht, Rabbit Kielbasa, Rye Toast, Varenyky, Elk, Duck Dumplings, Lamb Dish, Schnitzel, Quail
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Denver’s most unique restaurants serve up more than a meal, they create stories you’ll want to tell, spark conversation, and make dining feel like discovery. This guide is your starting point to experience the city’s creativity beyond the usual menus. Ready to find new favorites? Bookmark it, share with friends, and tag your next dining partner. If you’re hungry for more, check out our full restaurant directory, browse our picks for romantic date-night spots, or shake things up with the city’s most unique bars.

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Denver’s most unique restaurants serve up more than a meal, they create stories you’ll want to tell, spark conversation, and make dining feel like discovery. This guide is your starting point to experience the city’s creativity beyond the usual menus. Ready to find new favorites? Bookmark it, share with friends, and tag your next dining partner. If you’re hungry for more, check out our full restaurant directory, browse our picks for romantic date-night spots, or shake things up with the city’s most unique bars.

No items found.

Denver’s most unique restaurants serve up more than a meal, they create stories you’ll want to tell, spark conversation, and make dining feel like discovery. This guide is your starting point to experience the city’s creativity beyond the usual menus. Ready to find new favorites? Bookmark it, share with friends, and tag your next dining partner. If you’re hungry for more, check out our full restaurant directory, browse our picks for romantic date-night spots, or shake things up with the city’s most unique bars.

FAQs

What are the most unique restaurants in Denver for a truly different dining experience?

For stand-out uniqueness, try SuperMegaBien, where Latin American small plates are rolled to your table dim-sum-style, making every meal interactive and social. The Wolf's Tailor impresses with wild game tasting menus and an emphasis on creative pairings, offering a meal that feels more like a culinary journey. Both venues go far beyond the ordinary with inventive concepts, memorable settings, and commitment to quality.

For stand-out uniqueness, try SuperMegaBien, where Latin American small plates are rolled to your table dim-sum-style, making every meal interactive and social. The Wolf's Tailor impresses with wild game tasting menus and an emphasis on creative pairings, offering a meal that feels more like a culinary journey. Both venues go far beyond the ordinary with inventive concepts, memorable settings, and commitment to quality.

Which Denver restaurants are best for special occasions or celebration dinners?

Flagstaff House in Boulder tops the list for celebrations, framing your evening with breathtaking mountain views and refined multi-course menus. For those seeking innovation and intimacy, BRUTØ offers an extraordinary tasting menu in a boutique setting—ideal for anniversaries or big milestones. Both feature excellent wine pairings and attentive service to make special nights unforgettable.

Flagstaff House in Boulder tops the list for celebrations, framing your evening with breathtaking mountain views and refined multi-course menus. For those seeking innovation and intimacy, BRUTØ offers an extraordinary tasting menu in a boutique setting—ideal for anniversaries or big milestones. Both feature excellent wine pairings and attentive service to make special nights unforgettable.

Are there unique vegetarian-friendly restaurants in Denver?

Absolutely—City O' City is Denver’s creative plant-based legend, serving inventive vegetarian and vegan comfort food in a relaxed, artsy environment. Plant Magic Cafe puts a whimsical twist on vegan fare, with specialty lattes and organic comfort food served alongside rooftop seating and community events. Both offer rich flavors and thoughtful menus for all diners.

Absolutely! City O' City is Denver’s creative plant-based legend, serving inventive vegetarian and vegan comfort food in a relaxed, artsy environment. Plant Magic Cafe puts a whimsical twist on vegan fare, with specialty lattes and organic comfort food served alongside rooftop seating and community events. Both offer rich flavors and thoughtful menus for all diners.

Where can I find interesting group dining spots in Denver?

Rhein Haus is a top pick, thanks to its beer hall format, robust German menu, and on-site bocce ball courts—perfect for group gatherings. SuperMegaBien’s dim-sum-style plates make sharing and trying new foods easy for parties of all sizes. Both spaces combine interactive dining with lively atmospheres that cater to groups and celebrations.

Rhein Haus is a top pick, thanks to its beer hall format, robust German menu, and on-site bocce ball courts—perfect for group gatherings. SuperMegaBien’s dim-sum-style plates make sharing and trying new foods easy for parties of all sizes. Both spaces combine interactive dining with lively atmospheres that cater to groups and celebrations.

Do any Denver restaurants feature live music or special events?

Colorado Sake Co. regularly hosts live music evenings, enhancing its sake tasting and Japanese small plates experience in RiNo. Plant Magic Cafe also features live performances alongside its cafe fare, offering a relaxed setting to enjoy community-focused events. Check calendars for current schedules and special happenings at both venues.

Colorado Sake Co. regularly hosts live music evenings, enhancing its sake tasting and Japanese small plates experience in RiNo. Plant Magic Cafe also features live performances alongside its cafe fare, offering a relaxed setting to enjoy community-focused events. Check calendars for current schedules and special happenings at both venues.

Which unique restaurants in Denver offer tasting menus?

BRUTØ stands out for its 11-course tasting menu highlighting sustainable, locally sourced ingredients in a refined, intimate space. The Wolf's Tailor offers ever-changing tasting flights, focusing on creative wild game and seasonal dishes with expert beverage pairings. Both are reservation-only and provide a curated culinary exploration ideal for adventurous food lovers.

BRUTØ stands out for its 11-course tasting menu highlighting sustainable, locally sourced ingredients in a refined, intimate space. The Wolf's Tailor offers ever-changing tasting flights, focusing on creative wild game and seasonal dishes with expert beverage pairings. Both are reservation-only and provide a curated culinary exploration ideal for adventurous food lovers.

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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