Top 10 Restaurants in Denver for Intimate Dining Experiences
Denver is known for its incredible food scene, and while there are many famous restaurants in the city, some of the best food can be found in the smaller, local establishments. These restaurants are often hidden gems, with unique menus and a cozy, intimate atmosphere. In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of the best small, local restaurants in Denver.
Safta is an Israeli restaurant located in the Source Hotel in the RiNo Arts District. Chef Alon Shaya has created a menu that showcases the bold flavors of Israeli cuisine, with dishes like lamb kebabs, falafel, and shakshuka. The restaurant's interior is sleek and modern, with an open kitchen and a lively atmosphere. Safta also has a great selection of Israeli wines and cocktails, making it the perfect place for a night out with friends.
Mizu Izakaya is a cozy Japanese restaurant located in LoHi. The restaurant has a laid-back atmosphere and serves up a variety of small plates, sushi, and sake. Highlights include the tuna poke, the yakitori skewers, and the spider roll.
Work & Class is a small restaurant in the RiNo Art District serving up delicious Latin American cuisine. The menu features dishes like the pork belly with hominy, the Colorado lamb neck, and the shrimp and grits. The restaurant has a casual, intimate atmosphere, with a small bar area and communal tables.
The Plimoth is a small restaurant located in the City Park neighborhood, serving up farm-to-table cuisine. The menu changes frequently, but highlights have included the duck confit and the roasted chicken. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere, with a small bar area and outdoor seating in the summer.
Mercantile Dining & Provision is a small restaurant located in Union Station, serving up delicious New American cuisine. The restaurant has a great atmosphere, with an open kitchen and large communal tables. Highlights include the roasted chicken and the charcuterie board.
Bistro Vendome is a small French restaurant formerly located in Larimer Square and now resides in the Park Hill Neighborhood of Denver. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere, with an outdoor patio in the summer months. The menu features classic French dishes like the escargot and the coq au vin, as well as more modern dishes like the roasted cauliflower.
Sushi Den is a small Japanese restaurant located in Platt Park. The restaurant has a minimalist atmosphere, with an open kitchen and a sushi bar. The menu features a variety of sushi and sashimi options, as well as hot dishes like the miso black cod.
Dio Mio is a small Italian restaurant located in RiNo. The restaurant specializes in fresh pasta, made in-house daily. Highlights include the cacio e pepe and the bucatini carbonara. The restaurant has a casual, intimate atmosphere, with an open kitchen and a small bar area.
Bar Dough is a small Italian restaurant located in LoHi, serving up delicious pizzas and pasta dishes. Highlights include the pepperoni pizza and the cavatelli pasta. The restaurant has a great atmosphere, with an open kitchen and a large bar area.
This award-winning restaurant in the Capitol Hill neighborhood offers refined French-American cuisine in a romantic setting. The menu changes often to showcase seasonal ingredients, but you can expect dishes like foie gras torchon, seared duck breast, and classic steak frites. The dining room is small and cozy, with candlelit tables and elegant decor.