Best of Denver
🥂 The 10 Best Date Night Restaurants in Denver
In Denver, "going out to dinner" creates a choice: do you simply want a meal, or do you want a memory? While the city is full of incredible food, a specific subset of restaurants offers something more—a fully immersive escape from reality.
From cliff divers and taxidermy museums to underwater dining and secret bookshelves, these ten spots prove that in the Mile High City, the environment is just as important as the entrée. Here is your curated guide to the most theatrical, unique, and food-forward immersive dining experiences in Denver right now.
🎟️ Book Early for Access: Limited dinner hours during beta-testing require advance reservation as walk-ins are not accepted.
🎭 Entertainment Is the Star: Expect to spend time enjoying cliff diving shows, puppet theaters, and live music beyond just your meal.
🍽️ Flat Fee Pricing: Meals are priced at $30-$40 with a mandatory 15% service fee, so budget accordingly for the full experience.
👨👩👧 Family Focused: The venue offers kid-friendly options including a kids’ menu, face painting, and balloon animals, making it a top choice for families.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur.
Block quote
Ordered list
Unordered list
Bold text
Emphasis
Superscript
Subscript
🍹 Rooftop Rules: For happy hour on the rooftop, guests must sit in the designated blue table section and order directly at the bus bar.
🌱 Gluten-Free Friendly: The staff is highly knowledgeable about gluten-free and celiac-safe options, with many menu items clearly labeled.
🎉 Exceptional Service Staff: Servers like Najja and Mickey receive frequent praise for attentiveness and helpful menu advice, enhancing the dining experience.
🚗 Parking Challenges: Parking in the Highland area can be difficult; consider arriving early or using paid lots nearby.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur.
Block quote
Ordered list
Unordered list
Bold text
Emphasis
Superscript
Subscript
🦌 Try the Exotic Game Meats: The elk, bison, and yak dishes are standout specialties that regulars rave about for their distinct flavors.
🍸 Explore the Cocktail Menu: The bar offers a curated selection of cocktails and local beers that perfectly complement the hearty menu.
🎟️ Historic Ambiance: Ordering a table upstairs provides views of unique taxidermy and memorabilia but expect some foot traffic from patrons moving through.
🚗 Parking Tips: Although free parking is available, it can be limited during peak times; arriving early or booking ahead helps secure a spot.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur.
Block quote
Ordered list
Unordered list
Bold text
Emphasis
Superscript
Subscript
🕒 Visit During Happy Hour: Monday to Friday from 3–7 PM offers great deals on drinks and appetizers in a lively setting.
🐠 Best Views Near the Tank: Request seating close to the aquarium for an immersive dining experience surrounded by tropical fish.
🚗 Parking Tips: Paid parking is ample both in the lot and on the street, but arriving early can secure the best spots.
👨👩👧 Family Friendly: The kids’ menu and engaging aquarium make it a hit for families, with high chairs and attentive service for children.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur.
Block quote
Ordered list
Unordered list
Bold text
Emphasis
Superscript
Subscript
🏓 Ping Pong Reservations: Book ping pong tables in advance as casual dining reservations don’t guarantee table access.
🍹 Happy Hour Specials: Enjoy discounted drinks and food during 4–6 PM on weekdays and 3–6 PM on weekends.
🌅 Weekend Brunch: Brunch available Saturdays and Sundays from 11 AM to 3 PM, offering a perfect mid-day social vibe.
🍽️ Tableside Service Highlights: Don’t miss the tableside carving of the Peking Duck, a favorite for group dining experiences.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur.
Block quote
Ordered list
Unordered list
Bold text
Emphasis
Superscript
Subscript
Happy Camper lures brunch lovers with $35 bottomless mimosas or Bloody Marys Fri–Sun. Tucked in LoHi, it’s casual, pizza-centric, and buzzy with energy. The pizzas are beloved, the drinks keep coming, and the vibe is laid-back enough to let time stretch a little longer. For those who want brunch that’s unpretentious, affordable, and bottomless often—they’ve set the bar low.
🔥 Fire Pit Vibes: The outdoor fire pit is a favorite gathering spot, especially on cooler evenings, enhancing the laid-back atmosphere.
🍕 Try the Pickle Pizza: A unique and popular menu item that many locals recommend as a must-try.
🥂 Brunch Reservations: Booking ahead for brunch is advised since this spot gets busy, especially on weekends.
🐾 Dogs Allowed Outside: While dogs can join guests in the outdoor patio area, the dog-friendliness is limited to outside seating only.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur.
Block quote
Ordered list
Unordered list
Bold text
Emphasis
Superscript
Subscript
🍹 Happy Hour Perks: Happy Hour runs throughout opening hours daily, offering great deals on tropical cocktails and small plates.
🌴 Vibrant Atmosphere: The plant-filled, colorful decor creates a lively yet cozy vibe, making it a great spot for groups and solo diners alike.
🛵 Flexible Dining Options: Dine in, takeout, delivery, and no-contact options ensure convenience for any preference or schedule.
🚗 Parking Tips: Free street parking is available, but can be limited; early arrival during busy evenings is recommended.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur.
Block quote
Ordered list
Unordered list
Bold text
Emphasis
Superscript
Subscript
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.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur.
Block quote
Ordered list
Unordered list
Bold text
Emphasis
Superscript
Subscript
🍽️ Wednesday Nights Only: Bastien's operates dinner service exclusively on Wednesdays from 4 to 9 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.
🥩 Try the Sugar Rub: The thick-cut sugar-rubbed steak is a local favorite, delivering a subtly sweet crust that sets it apart from traditional steakhouses.
🍰 Don't Miss Dessert: Classic American desserts like bread pudding and skillet apple pie with vanilla ice cream are must-tries.
🅿️ Parking is Easy Before 5 PM: Free lot and street parking are plentiful especially before the dinner rush, but it can get busy after 5 PM.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur.
Block quote
Ordered list
Unordered list
Bold text
Emphasis
Superscript
Subscript
Denver is often criticized for being a "casual" city, but these spots prove we have a flair for the dramatic. Whether you are battling over ping-pong at Ace Eat Serve or stepping back into the Rat Pack era at Bastien's, these restaurants offer more than a meal, they offer a story to tell the next day. Book early, because everyone wants a front-row seat.
Denver is often criticized for being a "casual" city, but these spots prove we have a flair for the dramatic. Whether you are battling over ping-pong at Ace Eat Serve or stepping back into the Rat Pack era at Bastien's, these restaurants offer more than a meal, they offer a story to tell the next day. Book early, because everyone wants a front-row seat.
Denver is often criticized for being a "casual" city, but these spots prove we have a flair for the dramatic. Whether you are battling over ping-pong at Ace Eat Serve or stepping back into the Rat Pack era at Bastien's, these restaurants offer more than a meal, they offer a story to tell the next day. Book early, because everyone wants a front-row seat.
Login or sign up to save events, restaurants, bars, and experiences.
