The 38 Essential Denver Restaurants: Recommended dining spots in the Mile High City
Eater.com recently listed their top 38 Essential Restaurants in Denver.
Take a look at the list and visit their site to see 'em all!
Welcome to the Eater 38, our guide to Denver’s essential restaurants. This list is an answer to any question that begins with “Can you recommend a restaurant?”
The eclectic group of eateries spans a variety of cuisines and collectively satisfies any dining need from quick and casual to hip and special occasion. Every few months, Eater staff add pertinent restaurants that were omitted or have recently become eligible (restaurants must be open at least six months). Older restaurants that have stepped up their game may also be added.
Without further ado, Comal, Izakaya Den, Cattivella, Maria Empanada, and Ace Eat Serve join the map, while Shish Kabob Grill, Sushi Den, Barolo Grill, Abejas, and Vesta depart it.
1. Frasca Food and Wine
1738 Pearl St
Boulder, CO 80302
(303) 442-6966
This upscale restaurant consistently ranks on Eater’s national 38 list. It has an outstanding wine list selected by master sommelier Bobby Stuckey. The Northern Italian Friulian cuisine, under direction of new chefs Kelly Jeun and Eduardo Valle Lobo, takes guests on a tour of salumi, pasta, pesce, and more, all crafted with the best ingredients. It’s a table worth booking for an anniversary, or a bar seat to grab when in need of some top-notch wine and hospitality.
2. Basta
3601 Arapahoe Ave
Boulder, CO 80303
(303) 997-8775
Tucked in the Peloton complex on Boulder’s East Arapahoe, this wood-fired eatery by chef Kelly Whitaker dishes out a variety of items from handmade pastas and Neapolitan pizzas to oysters and short ribs cooked sous vide. Go for expert wine advice, well-appointed cocktails, and creations from one of the most highly regarded chefs in the region.
3. Blackbelly Market
1606 Conestoga St #3
Boulder, CO 80301
(303) 247-1000
Top Chef winning Hosea Rosenberg opened his flagship restaurant in an unlikely location in Boulder and has struck gold. The deliberately comforting yet creative food and spotless service keep drawing crowds. The sister butcher shop next door provides great cuts to-go as well as high-quality sandwiches. Also worth trying is Blackbelly’s new sister restaurant, Santo, a tribute to New Mexican cuisine.
4. New Saigon
630 S Federal Blvd
Denver, CO 80219
(303) 936-4954
Returned to its original owners, this decades-old staple of South Federal offers authentic Vietnamese cuisine in a casual bustling environment. It is great for a quick solo dinner or a family gathering and sure to please adults and kids alike.
5. Bar Dough
2227 W 32nd Ave
Denver, CO 80211
(720) 668-8506
The LoHi spot helmed by ‘Top Chef’ contestant Carrie Baird charms with a vibrant and casual atmosphere and surprises with dishes that are always creative and expertly executed. If you stray from the pizza menu, find pastas that will win your heart as well as delicate and inventive veggies. Bonus: The brunch is fantastic and Baird’s toasts are on-special.
To read about all 38, visit Eater.com.
