Dining Guide
 Denver has achieved a reputation, along with San Francisco and New Orleans, of being home to a wide assortment of distinctive, high-quality restaurants. Given the ethnic mix of the city, virtually all parts of the world are represented through its cuisine. Denver's location, its proximity to the mountains and its cosmopolitan atmosphere, has proven to be a magnet attracting many of the world's top chefs. Whether homegrown or international, standard American fare or haut cuisine, Denver has something to please every palate. The citizens of Denver patronize their eateries perhaps more than residents of other cities and the daily influx of tourists makes reservations a must. Denver dining is casual. Only a few restaurants such as the Palace Arms in the Brown Palace Hotel require gentlemen to wear a coat and tie. What follows is a list of top-rated restaurants in Denver and the surrounding area.
American
MIZUNA This restaurant located in the Capitol Hill area of Denver has often won "best restaurant" honors in Denver. The food is described as "New American," which means the chef has found a way to make familiar foods even more exciting while retaining their essential character. Zagat reports this is the best restaurant in Colorado, saying the service is fantastic "not just responsive but anticipatory." The salads are described as "almost too pretty to eat" and the entrees as making gourmets "dizzy with glee." The wine list is described as stunning. Modest to expensive. 225 E. Seventh Avenue, (303) 832-4778.
WYNKOOP BREWING COMPANY Wynkoop opened its doors in 1988 as Denver's first new brewery in more than 50 years. It was the brainchild of present Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper. Since then, 75 microbreweries have opened in the city. This establishment located in a warehouse across the street from Union Square offers pub fare, soups, sandwiches, pot pies, and steaks. The handmade brews are called "terrific" and for those addicted to snooker, there is a pool hall upstairs. Modest prices . 1634 18th Street (at Wynkoop Street), (303) 297-2700.
HIGHLANDS GARDEN CAFE This Victorian Manor located in North Denver is another of Zagat's top-rated Denver restaurants. Chef-owner Patricia Perry has won plaudits for her "shockingly huge," New American menu, and for the high quality of the food. Moderate. 3927 W. 32nd Avenue, (303) 458-5920.
KEVIN TAYLOR This elegant restaurant located downtown, in Denver's Hotel Teatro, is the dream of chef-owner Kevin Taylor. The atmosphere is described as "rather formal" and the food as "perfection on a plate." The service is reported to be "tops," and the wine cellar as "top-flight." Expensive. 1106 14th Street, (303) 820-2600.
Asian Fusion
STRINGS This is the place to be seen. Celebrity sightings are frequent as evidenced by the autographed photos they leave behind raving about the food and the service. Highlights on the menu which features fusion cuisine are noodle dishes and fresh seafood such as cashew crusted sea bass. Moderate to Expensive. 1700 Humboldt Street, (303) 831-7310.
ZENGO This River Park eatery has been described as "the coolest looking eatery in the West," as "bodaciously sexy," and "unlike any other restaurant in Denver." According to Zagat, it is not just the decor that gets high marks, the food does as well. The menu features what is described as "Asian-Nuevo Latino." For those who like to watch their meal prepared, the chef's counter is the best seat in the house. Moderate. 1610 Little Raven Street ( 15th Street), (720) 904-0965.
Brazilian
CAFE BRAZIL This Berkeley Park venue is the dream of chef-owner Tony Zarlenga. The food has been termed "exciting," and according to Zagat merits top rating because it "astonishes the taste buds," and is a "magical experience." The restaurant is small and has a steady stream of repeat customers so reservations are a must although drop-ins report "it is well worth the wait." Moderate. 4408 Lowell Blvd. ( 44th Avenue), (303) 480-1877.
Breakfast
DOZENS This classic is the favorite of everyone from sports figures to politicians. Inexpensive . 236 W. 13th Avenue, (303) 572-0066.
PETE'S KITCHEN Described as a prototypical urban diner this landmark is open 24 hours on weekends. It is known for its killer breakfast burritos as well as for its traditional bacon and egg standbys. Inexpensive. (303) 321-3139
Brunch
ELLYNGTON'S Located in the Brown Palace Hotel, this is the best place in town for a luxuriant Sunday brunch. Gentlemen please wear a sports jacket. Expensive. 321 17th Street , (303) 297-3111.
Cajun
BAYOU BOB'S Crave some spicy alligator, a catfish po'boy, fresh crawfish etoufee, some jambalaya, gumbo, red beans and rice? If so, this is the place for you. Inexpensive. 1635 Glenarm Street in the Paramount Theater Building, (303) 573-6828.
Chinese
LITTLE OLLIE'S CHINESE One local magazine's readers rate this the best Chinese restaurant in Denver. The restaurant, serving all the traditional favorites, is in Cherry Creek. Inexpensive. 2364 East Third Avenue, (303) 316-8888.
P.F.CHANG'S CHINA BISTRO The Denver affiliate of this Phoenix-based chain serves its own unique version of classic Chinese dishes. Judging by the crowds, the food must be great. Moderate. 1415 15th Street, (303) 260-7222.
IMPERIAL CHINESE RESTAURANT The decor is described as "opulent and the food "fit for a king." The sesame chicken and the Peking Duck are highly recommended although the house specializes in seafood. Moderate. 431 South Broadway, (303) 698-2800.
Continental
PALACE ARMS This elegant restaurant in the Brown Palace Hotel combines the best of continental (which is to say French) cuisine with traditional American fare. The Caesar salad is prepared tableside, the bison steak (it's leaner than beef) is a specialty, as are horseradish-crusted veal loin and roasted rack of Colorado lamb. The food is top-drawer and the wines have received awards from Wine Spectator Magazine. The restaurant is one of the few that demands a coat and tie. Expensive. 321 17th Street, (303) 297-3111.
Diners
ROCKY MOUNTAIN DINER The decor is green leather booths. The food is marked by generous portions of meat loaf, chicken-fried steak and pot roast served with mashed potatoes and gravy. Try the white-chocolate banana cream pie for dessert. Inexpensive. 800 18th Street, (303) 293-8383.
HOT CAKES DINER This is a popular place for a home-cooked breakfast. It is reputed to be the kind of place where you want a whole stack of pancakes but they are so big that you can only eat one. This is a popular place for lunch as well. The service is as exceptional as the food. Inexpensive. 1400 East 18th Avenue, (303) 832-4351.
French
LE CENTRAL This bistro, located just a few blocks south of the State Capitol, prides itself on serving great food with a French influence at a modest price. They serve seafood, chicken, beef, lamb, pork or veal, grilled sautéed or roasted. They are known for their mussel, clams, bouillabaisse and french fries. Moderate. 112 East 8th Avenue, (303) 863-8094.
BEN VENDOME This is an upscale French restaurant that has won more than its share of prizes. What you get here is not a meal but a gastronomic adventure. Expensive. 1424-H Larimer Square, (303) 825-3232.
Greek
YANNI'S A visit to this family-run taverna will make you think that you are in Greece. The food is great, from the mousaka to the baklava. The salads are wonderful as is the homemade fresh bread. Inexpensive. 2223 South Monaco Parkway, (303) 692-0404.
Hamburgers
MAX BURGERWORKS The menu features at least 20 different kinds of burgers – salmon burgers, veggie burgers, turkey burgers, bison burgers, Italian sausage burgers and of course beef burgers. They serve Big City Red hot dogs and shakes. The salads are superb. Inexpensive. 1512 Larimer Street, (303) 534-0944.
High Tea
THE PALACE ARMS The Brown Palace hotel is the best place in town to enjoy high tea. It is served at 4 p.m. Reservations are commended. Expensive. 321 l7th Street, (303) 297-3111.
Indian
INDIA'S According to the Zagat Guide, this South Denver bistro is the best place in town for Indian food. The decor is over the top for some people but the cuisine, accented by hot spices and curry, is bound to please. Inexpensive. 3333 south Tamarac Drive, (303) 755-4284.
Irish
DUFFY'S SHAMROCK This is a traditional Irish pub which serves imported Irish beers, but the food is mostly American. Specialties include fried shrimp, prime rib, liver and onions and a variety of sandwiches. Inexpensive. 16635 Court Place, (303) 534-4935.
Italian
LUCA D'ITALIA This Capitol Hill eatery is owned by Chef Frank Bonanno whose other restaurant, Mizuna, is the top rated in Denver. According to Zagat, this restaurant is not far behind. In fact, it is the best Italian restaurant featuring Southern Italian food. The pasta is homemade and delicious. The salads, antipasto and the meat dishes are labeled "fabulous." Moderate to expensive. 711 Grant Street , (303) 832-6600.
PANZANO Located in the Hotel Monaco, this downtown restaurant consistently wins awards for best Northern Italian cuisine. The restaurant features an open kitchen, inviting customers to see how the fabulous food is prepared. This is a popular place to take out of town guests. The service is every bit as good as the food. Moderate to expensive. 909 17th Street (303) 296-3525.
BAROLO GRILL This Cherry Creek restaurant specializes in Northern Italian cuisine, especially veal. It rivals Panzano above for best Northern Italian laurels. The food, service and decor are all top shelf. Moderate to expensive. 3030 East Sixth Avenue, (303) 393-1040.
Japanese
TOM TOM ROOM This restaurant located in the lower Downtown (LoDo) area is all the rage. Its unique factor is robata, which is skewers of meat, seafood and veggies placed over charcoal in the center of a table and meant to be shared. The atmosphere is described as "sleek" and the service is "memorable." The restaurant offers excellent sushi rolls as well. Moderate to expensive. 1432 Market Street, (303) 534-5050.
AKEBONO This restaurant offers a full Japanese menu from sushi to fried oysters, teriyaki and tempura dishes. Moderate to expensive. 1255 19th Street , second Floor, Japanese Tower, Sakura Square, (303) 295-1849.
Mexican
LIME This is the top-rated Mexican restaurant in Denver according to one local guide. The restaurant is lauded for its "festive' atmosphere, "sleek" dining room, high-quality creative Mexican fare and affordable prices. Inexpensive to Moderate. 1424 Larimer Street , (303) 893-5463.
CASA BONITA This West Denver eatery is described as being not just a restaurant but a theme park as well. There are more than 1,000 seats inside and the food is served cafeteria style. The specialties are tacos, fajitas, enchiladas and fried chicken – and it's all you can eat. Inexpensive. 6715 West Colfax Avenue in Lakewood, (303) 232-5155.
LOLA You can tell this is an upscale Mexican restaurant by the service which is extraordinary. The food is also said to be superlative. Little touches say it all. For example, guacamole is prepared fresh tableside for each guest. Fresh tuna fajitas and grilled shrimp are two of the specialties. The restaurant reportedly serves a mean Sunday brunch letting customers "try it all." Moderate. 1469 Pearl Street , (720) 570-8686.
Pizza
JOSEPHINA'S This restaurant is reported to have the best pizza in town. It also features live music nightly. Inexpensive. 1433 Larimer Street, (303) 623-0166.
WAZEE SUPPER CLUB Located in a classic Art Deco building, this restaurant offers huge overstuffed sandwiches and pizza – but what pizza! Many regulars boast it is not only the best in Denver but BEST IN THE WORLD! Inexpensive. 1600 15th Street (at Wazee Street), (303) 623-9518.
BONNIE BRAE TAVERN There must be a good reason why this neighborhood pizza joint has been in business since l934. Inexpensive. 740 South University Boulevard , (303) 777-2262.
Seafood
JAX FISH HOUSE According to the Zagat guide this is the top rated seafood restaurant in Denver. This is despite the fact that the tables are close together and the noise level can be high. The high quality and quantity of the food ("scrumptious seafood") is what matters to the endless line of repeat customers. Moderate . 1539 17th Street, (303) 292-5767.
McCORMICK'S FISH HOUSE AND BAR This restaurant is loved by many. It has a reputation of having some of the freshest fish in Denver. It is said to be helping to change Denver's reputation so that it includes great steaks AND world-class seafood. Moderate to expensive. 1659 Wazee Street , (303) 825-1107.
Steakhouses
THE PALM Denver version of a chain which started in New York in 1926. High-quality meats, huge proportions. Expensive. 1672 Lawrence Street in the Westin Hotel, (303) 825-7256.
MORTON'S Denver affiliate of Chicago-based chain. Same formula as The Palm. Expensive. 1710 Wynkoop Street, (303) 825-3353.
THE CAPITAL GRILL Another chain outlet in Denver, making it big in the town famous for steakhouses. Moderate to expensive. 1450 Larimer Street, (303) 539-2500.
THE DENVER CHOPHOUSE AND BREWERY Located in an old Union Pacific warehouse, this one has been a local favorite for years. Located a few blocks from Coors Field, it draws people for dinner and for drinks after the game. The decor is rich and the food is described as "inventive and good." Moderate to expensive. 1735 l9th Street, (303) 296-0800.
DEL FRISCO'S DOUBLE EAGLE This is the top rated steakhouse in Denver according to Zagat, scoring two points better than Morton's and one point better than The Capital Grill. It is the brainchild of Dee Lincoln whose Dallas-based restaurant by the same name won over the heart of the citizens of Dallas. Similar success has followed her to Denver and now the flamboyant Ms. Lincoln is setting up shop in New York. The list of celebrities who call this their favorite restaurant is much too long to print here. Expensive. 8100 Orchard Road in Greenwood Village, (303) 796-0100.
Sushi
SUSHI DEN According to the Zagat survey this is not only the best sushi restaurant in Denver, it is one of the best overall. It received the same score as Del Frisco's Double Eagle above and scored only one point less that Mizuna, the top rated restaurant in Denver. Zagat says this is where " Beverly Hills meets the Rockies." It describes the restaurant as "sleek" and "modern" and the food "artful and inventive." The service could be better but the food is so good that it does not seem to matter. No reservations are taken. Moderate, (303) 777-0827.
Vegetarian
GOVINDA'S SPIRITUAL FOOD The best vegetarian fare is found as part of the local Hare Krishna temple. They offer an all-you-can-eat buffet with great soups, salads, fresh baked bread and a huge selection of meatless dishes from enchiladas to casserole to stir-fry dishes. Some have a distinct Indian or Middle Eastern flare. Sunday dinners at 6 p.m. are free. Inexpensive. 1400 North Cherry Street, (303) 333-5461.
Vietnamese
NEW SAIGON This is a top-rated restaurant which has been lauded for its "enormous menu." The food has been described as "authentic" and "fabulous." It is hailed as having "the best spring rolls" around and "outrageous noodle soups." One Zagat reviewer said it was an inexpensive way to take your tongue on a trip to Vietnam. The eatery is not much to look at, scoring low marks for decor and the service was rated "average" – no matter because the quality of the food makes up for all other sins. Inexpensive. 630 Federal Boulevard, (303) 936-4954.
Western
THE BUCKHORN EXCHANGE This is a place you will want to see and the food is so good that you will want to stay. It is located in the same old building that housed it in 1893 when it was granted Colorado liquor license No. l. You can see it over the bar upstairs. The dining room downstairs is described as a "taxidermist's delight." The Buckhorn features game, buffalo prime rib, pheasant and quail, fried alligator tail and rattlesnake (it tastes like chicken they say). For those with less adventuresome palates, good old fashioned beef steaks from 8 ounces to 64 are available. The Dutch Apple pie is heartily recommended. Moderate to Expensive. 1000 Osage Street (One mile southwest of the State Capitol or one light rail stop), (303) 534-9505.
THE FORT No trip to the Denver vicinity would be complete without visiting this recreation of Bent's Fort. It was the original fur trading post which has been lovingly restored to its original look and feel. The service is described as the best in town. The food is 5 Star and includes normal stuff like steaks and more exotic fare like buffalo steaks, elk chops and Rocky Mountain oysters (they also taste like chicken--or so they say). Located l8 miles southwest of Denver, the views back at the city light are spectacular. 19192 Colorado Route 8 (just north of the intersection between Colorado Route 8 and West Hampden Avenue/U.S.285 in Morrison, (303) 697-4771.
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