With world-class skiing in its backyard and views that are truly awe-inspiring, Denver has staked its claim as one of the country’s best places to live. It does in fact, continue to hold a top spot every year in U.S. News & World Report’s Best Places to Live report. The secret is out and Denver’s appeal has reached an audience far beyond the outdoor adventure seekers and lovers of all things nature. Denver has also experienced a resurgence in the restaurant scene as established and fledgling chefs alike have discovered what many have known for a long time—Denver is a dynamic eating destination. Unlike bigger cities, Denver has the innate ability to retain its rustic charm to offer its residents an eclectic mix of eateries without having to be staid or stuffy. For those looking to take advantage of this booming scene, there are some great new restaurants in Denver worth exploring.
Cattivella
With the amenities of a city suburb, but with all of the advantages of being in the city itself, the Stapleton area has made its mark as one of Denver’s most sought-after neighborhoods. Award-winning Chef Elise Wiggins has also jumped on board with the opening of her newest eatery, Cattivella. This wood-fired Italian restaurant has an impressive exhibition-style kitchen giving diners a front row seat to their food preparation from either the Chef’s Counter or the Butcher’s Corner. Serving an inventive array of Italian fare and an extensive wine and bar menu, Cattivella is a great spot for a perfect “comfort food” meal.
The Way Back
In its new Berkeley location, The Way Back has been reinvented and continues to shine as one of the best new restaurants in Denver. With its “rustic-chic” decor and innovative seasonal menus, The Way Back celebrates locally-sourced products by partnering with area farmers and purveyors to offer their take on New American cuisine. Their cocktail menu also aims to please with creative takes on classic drinks with equally inventive names like Smoke on the Water and The Fluffer.
Tavernetta
Located in one of Denver’s most historic neighborhoods, Tavernetta opened its doors near Union Station last year. With an impressive stone entrance and modern facade, this edgy Italian eatery makes its home alongside the Kimpton Hotel Born. Tavernetta’s open kitchen concept adds to the casual and smart vibe and produces traditional Italian dishes with a flair, reminiscent of authentic neighborhood restaurants back in the homeland. Diners will delight in its array of Italian favorites, from the antipasti right through to the sweet desserts.
FNG
Making its home in the trendy Highlands neighborhood is Denver newcomer FNG. This stylish restaurant serves up a myriad of comfort food items with a side of rock n’ roll decor. Vinyl accents and framed classic albums set the tone for this 1970’s-inspired take on a modern American restaurant. Tater tots and classic chicken-fried steak are a few of the throwback menu items, but FNG also inspires with eclectic items including rotisserie lamb and Colorado bison enchiladas. The creativity extends right through to the cocktail menu with funky drinks such as the Debbie Gibson and the Rebel Rebel.
Julep
For a bit of good ol’ Southern flavor and hospitality, diners should not miss Julep. Offering elevated Southern cuisine from their RiNo location, Julep has somehow created a cozy vibe in an industrial building. The brick-faced bar is a great first stop for a classic cocktail to be followed by a hearty meal with sophisticated style such as the homemade buttermilk biscuits or pork and oyster sausage. This is one of the popular new restaurants in Denver that is a crowd pleaser and with an additional mezzanine area and large patio. They are ready to feed the masses.
These are just a few of the great new restaurants in Denver that help make it one of the country’s most livable and dynamic cities. If you would like to explore these neighborhoods as well as the many others throughout the city, Dyllan Real Estate can help lead the way. Please contact me for more information.